This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that features fresh squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping. It’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings!
I love how simple it is to whip up — just mix, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies onto the table without the fuss. Who could resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! You can use zucchini if you can’t find yellow squash, or a mix of both for variety. The texture will remain similar.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for a bold taste. If you want a lighter cheese, try Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free option if you’re avoiding dairy.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These add creaminess to the casserole. Plain Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for both, giving you a tangy flavor with less fat.
Cracker Crumbs: Ritz crackers are a classic choice for topping. You can swap with breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even panko for a crunchier texture.
How Do I Properly Cook the Squash and Onions?
Cooking the squash and onions before mixing them into the casserole is crucial to avoid excess moisture. Follow these simple steps:
- Boil in salted water until just tender, about 5 minutes. This helps soften them and enhances their flavors.
- Drain well and let them cool slightly; excess moisture can make the casserole soggy.
Taking this step will ensure your casserole is creamy and not watery, leading to a delicious dish everyone will love!
How to Make Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup cracker crumbs (such as Ritz crackers)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and 30-35 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll spend around 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and perfect side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). A warm oven is crucial to get that perfect golden topping on your casserole.
2. Cook the Squash and Onions:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onions. Cook them together for about 5 minutes or until they are tender. After that, drain the water and let them cool slightly. This step helps reduce moisture in your casserole, so it stays nice and creamy.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained squash and onion mixture, the beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Stir everything together until well combined and creamy.
4. Prepare the Topping:
In another small bowl, mix the cracker crumbs with melted butter. This will give your casserole that delicious crunchy topping we all love!
5. Combine and Spread:
Pour the squash mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish. Then, sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs over the top. If you’d like, you can add a sprinkle of paprika for extra color.
6. Bake:
Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top, which means it’s ready to go!
7. Let Cool and Serve:
After baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it to set a bit more. Now it’s ready to be served and enjoyed!
Enjoy your Easy Southern Squash Casserole as a wonderful side dish for any occasion!
FAQ About Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove any excess moisture before incorporating it into the casserole. You may want to sauté the thawed squash briefly to bring back some flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftover Casserole?
Leftover squash casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it unbaked in the fridge. Just cover it with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it goes into the oven cold.
What Can I Substitute for the Mayonnaise?
If you’d like to avoid mayonnaise, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or extra sour cream to maintain the creamy texture. Some people also like using cottage cheese for a different twist!
